Inline skating sports game and method of play

ABSTRACT

A method of playing a game, comprising providing a playing surface that is generally rectangular with rounded corners having a length dimension of approximately 200 feet or less and a width dimension of approximately 85 feet or less, providing a pair of opposing goal nets, each associated with one end of the playing surface where each goal net defines a scoring area above said playing surface. providing a first team and a second team of players, each team alternatively having possession of the game ball and having an objective to score points by sending the game ball into the goal net. providing the first team and the second team each include six players and a goalie, where each of the six players wear inline skates except the goalies where players from the first team and the second team are free to collect the game ball after deflecting off the barrier.

BACKGROUND a. Field

The instant disclosure relates to an inline skating sports game. In oneembodiment, the instant disclosure relates to an inline skating sportsgame with a field of play, a ball, and goals.

b. Background Art

Inline skating has been around since the late 1970s, with significantincreases in popularity in the 1980s and 1990s. Soccer (i.e., footballoutside the United States) has been around for at least hundreds ofyears and football (i.e., American football) and basketball have alsobeen around for over 100 years. Soccer usually has a rectangular goal(of various sizes, depending on the size of the field). Soccer also hasa discipline system that involves yellow and red cards being given toplayers for the commission of fouls and serious fouls. Basketballinvolves a round ball that can be dribbled and passed with the hands.Football has versions of the game (i.e., “touch” football) wheretackling involves removing a flag from a belt (or similar device)instead of physically tackling. Basketball and football both can have ashot clock in some versions of the game.

The foregoing discussion is intended only to illustrate the presentfield and should not be taken as a disavowal of claim scope.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The instant disclosure relates to a method comprising A) providing afield of play, wherein the field of play includes a first goal net, afirst goal area proximate the first goal net, a first goal pad insidethe first goal area and proximate the first goal net, a second goal net,a second goal area proximate the second goal net, a second goal padinside the second goal area and proximate the second goal net, a gameball, a safety zone marking adjacent a perimeter of the field of play,B) placing, in the field of play, a first goalie with a first teamproximate the first goal net and wearing shoes, three forwards with thefirst team, each of the forwards wearing a flag belt of a first colorand inline skates or roller skates, three defenders with the first team,each of the defenders wearing a flag belt of a first color and inlineskates or roller skates, a second goalie with a second team proximatethe second goal net, three forwards with the second team, each of theforwards wearing a flag belt of a second color and inline skates orroller skates, three defenders with the second team, each of thedefenders wearing a flag belt of a second color and inline skates orroller skates, and C) moving, in the field of play the three forwardsand the three defenders of the first team and the three forwards and thethree defenders of the second team, where the game ball is possessed bythe first team or the second team, where the defender or the forward ofthe first team or the defender or the forward of the second team canpossess the game ball, causing the first team or the second team to anoffensive team and the other team without the game ball to be adefensive team, where the offensive team attempts to score a goal bycausing the game ball to pass into the first or the second goal net andthe defensive team attempts to prevent the goal by defending the firstor the second goal net, where the offensive team may move the game ballby pass between the forwards and the defenders in any combination orwhere the defender or the forward with the game ball may skate whiledribbling the game ball.

In one embodiment, a method of playing a game with a game ball, the gamecomprises the steps of (a) providing a playing surface that is generallyrectangular with rounded corners having a length dimension ofapproximately 200 feet or less and a width dimension of approximately 85feet or less; (b) providing a pair of opposing goal nets, eachassociated with one of the ends of the playing surface such that eachgoal net defines a scoring area above said playing surface; (c)providing a first team and a second team of players, each teamalternatively having possession of the game ball and having an objectiveto score points by throwing or kicking the game ball into the goal net;(d) providing the first team and the second team each include sixplayers and a goalie, where each of the six players wear inline skatesand each of the goalies does not wear inline skates; and (e) providing abarrier around the playing surface for deflecting the game ball towardthe playing surface where players from the first team and the secondteam are free to collect the game ball after deflecting off the barrier.

In another embodiment, a goal apparatus for an inline skating sportsgame, the goal apparatus comprises a rectangular goal net and an openingperpendicular to a field of play; a first plurality of secondary goalnets, wherein the first plurality of secondary goal nets are within therectangular goal net; and a second plurality of secondary goal nets,wherein the second plurality of secondary goal nets are not within therectangular goal net.

The foregoing and other aspects, features, details, utilities, andadvantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from reading thefollowing description and claims, and from reviewing the accompanyingdrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary field of play for an inline skating sportsgame with a first goal net configuration, consistent with embodiments ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary goal area configuration for an inline skatingsports game, consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 shows an exemplary goal net configuration for an inline skatingsports game, consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 shows an exemplary field of play for an inline skating sportsgame with a second goal net configuration, consistent with embodimentsof the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 shows the second goal net configuration of FIG. 4, consistentwith embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 shows an exemplary configuration of players on the playingsurface, consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Several embodiments an inline skating sports game and methods of playare disclosed herein. In general, the inline skating game is anultra-fast inline skating game with dynamic and multifaceted scoringopportunities, inventive and endless ball passing possibilities, and afree-wheeling inline skating sports showcase of unparalleled athleticskills. Details of the various embodiments of the present disclosure aredescribed below with specific reference to the figures.

The inline skating sports game achieves the fast pace and high levels ofaction three primary ways: (1) establishment of Code of Conduct rulesdesigned to prohibit defensive players from physically impedingoffensive players; (2) elimination of Floor Line rules and Gameplayrules that stop/limit offensive play-making; (3) establishment of aseries of Quick Re-Start rules (QRS) after very event that triggers aChange of Possession (COP) between teams, in order to facilitate acontinuous state of play at all times. These QRS rules initiate animmediate restart in play after goals, penalties, rules violations, tagturnovers (i.e., T/TO—Tag/Turn-Over rules—see below for moreinformation) and for those instances when the game ball (e.g., ball)goes out of play into the stands or into the player's bench.

(1) Some of the rules that are in place in the inline skating sportsgame herein include that defensive players are not permitted tophysically tackle, grab, check, push, hold, trip, shove etc. theoffensive players and the prohibition of a zone defense in order toprohibit the defensive team from intentionally arranging themselves infront of their own goal net, thereby effectively creating a human wallin an effort to prevent the offensive team from scoring (see below formore information on these rules).

(2) Other rules that some popular games include that are not part of therules of the inline skating sports game include various Floor Linesrules and Gameplay rules that effectively hinder the offensive team'sobjective of scoring goals: offsides—which prevents the offensiveplayers from getting down the rink towards the opposing goal net fasterthan the defensive players (hockey, soccer, American football);icing—which prevents the offensive team from passing the puck all theway down the ice towards the other teams goal net (hockey), three-secondlane violation rule, five second inbounds rule, eight second backcourtrule, over and back half court rule (all basketball rules)—all of theseFloor Line and Gameplay rules are designed to help the defensive teamprevent the offensive team from scoring.

(2) Other rules that are common in popular sports game that are not partof the rules of the inline skating sports game include various rulesthat limit the use of certain body parts that players are allowed to usein order to facilitate game play. In basketball, players are not allowedto use their legs or feet to pass the ball or score goals. In hockey andsoccer, players are not allowed to use their hands or arms to pass theball or score goals. There are no such limitations in this inlineskating sports game and players are free to use all of their hands,feet, legs, chest, head, shoulders and any other body parts tofacilitate game play.

(2) All of these rules mentioned above are very common in the mostpopular sports leagues in the United States such as the NationalBasketball Association (NBA), the National Hockey League (NHL), and theNational Football League (NFL) Major League Soccer (MLS), and theNational Football League (NFL).

(2) The results of all these very common Floor Line rules and Gameplayrules mentioned above is that there are constant stoppages to the game.In the NBA the average amount of game stoppages is over 40 times pergame just for fouls, plus additional stoppages for other rulesviolations and for the ball going out of bounds. In the NHL, gamestoppages occur on the average 81 times per game. In the MLS, there isan average of 75 stoppages per game. In the NFL there is a game stoppageafter every single play in order to allow both teams to reset theirplayers plus additional stoppages for penalties, out of bound plays, andtouchdowns.

By eliminating these cumbersome rules you get a sport that is muchfaster, has high scoring, has creative ball passing, and ultimately is amuch more exciting sports game than any other sport in existence.

(3) A third feature of the inline skating sports game that promotes fastand continuous gameplay is the Change of Possession (COP) rules and thecorrelating Quick Re-Start rules (QRS). The COP rules and QSR rules areinstrumental in effecting every facet of the game in order to achievethe desired result of the fastest and most exciting sports game everinvented with the least amount of game stoppages possible. (COP and QRSare described in much greater detail further on.)

(3) In addition to the Floor Lines rules and Gameplay rules previouslymentioned above, today's sports have 3 additional very common situationsthat combine to create even more stoppages in play. (1) a goal isscored, (2) the enforcement of the penalties and rule violations, and(3) the Game Ball goes out of bounds . In scenarios (1 & 2) the stoppagein play creates a situation in which gameplay is typically resumed onlyafter the orchestration of a set play that is administered by the gameofficials and that is “neutral in nature” in that it gives both teams anequal opportunity of gaining possession of the ball. In scenario (3)gameplay is typically resumed by the orchestration of a set play by theoffensive team from the out of bounds location.

(3) In this inline skating game there are 3 different QRSs that areinitiated immediately following a COP that allows for continuousgameplay throughout the entire duration of the competition. (1) Scoringa Goal is similar to basketball in that the Goalie acts as the inboundspasser to facilitate the continuous gameplay. (2) When there arepenalties and rule violations continuous gameplay is accomplished by theTag/Turnover rules (T/TO) which allows requires the player that is inpossession of the ball at the time of penalty or rules violation toimmediately roll the ball into the nearest corner, toss the balldirectly straight up into the air, or give it to the referee whoimmediately gives the ball to the nearest defensive player. (3) When thegame ball goes out of bounds or into the players' bench, continuousgameplay is accomplished by the referee immediately inbounding the ballto the nearest defensive player.

The Change of Possession (COP) rules combined with the correlating QRSrules system is the most dynamic in game management system ever designedto facilitate continuous gameplay in a team sports competition.

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary field of play for an inline skating sportsgame, consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure. A field ofplay 100 (i.e., a rink, a court, a playing area, a tennis court, agymnasium, a parking lot with a fence, a parking garage, etc.) canconsist of a standard size hockey rink (without an ice surface) completewith dasher boards 104 and/or glass risers. A typical hockey rink isapproximately 200 feet long and 85 feet wide. Other rink sizes (e.g.,Olympic size 200 ft.×100 ft., 195 ft.×83 ft., smaller youth rinks,etc.,) can also be used for the inline skating sports game.

A floor surface 102 of the field of play 100 can include any surfacesuitable for inline skating such as concrete, asphalt, wood, or othersurface such as ICECOURT™ which is specially designed for inline skatingand used nationally and internationally for roller hockey. The floorsurface 102 can include various floor surface markings or indicators(e.g., lines (painted or lights (in the floor surface or projected ontothe floor surface))to indicate different areas on the floor surface 102related to the inline sports game. For example, a border marking area106 can be yellow (e.g., yellow paint on the floor surface 102) in colorand adjacent to the dasher boards 104 around the perimeter of the fieldof play 100. The border marking area 106 can be a fixed width (e.g., 3ft.). The border marking area 106 can indicate, for example, a zone orarea on the field of play 100 where players cannot perform certainactions without incurring a penalty. The border marking area 106 can beused to increase player safety with respect to possible injuries relatedto the dasher boards 104. While players are inside or near the bordermarking area 106, referees will be extra cautious for the safety of theplayers and will therefore have a much lower tolerance for physical playand can be more likely to issue yellow and red cards to offendingplayers (see below for more information on penalties). The bordermarking area 106 can be indicated, for example, by the use of floortape, floor paint, or lighted floor markings (e.g., LED lights embeddedin the playing surface, or projected onto the playing surface.

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary goal area configuration for an inline skatingsports game, consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure. Agoal area 108 can be located at either end of the field of play as shownin FIG. 1. The goal area 108 can be indicated by a goal area markingthat notifies players of the goal area 108. The goal area marking canbe, for example, a yellow paint, floor tape, or LED type lightingembedded in the playing surface or projected onto the floor surface 102in a polygonal shape. The goal area 108 can be polygonal in shape (e.g.,half of an octagon; half a hexagon, sometimes referred to as “thehexagon” or “the hex”) with a boundary that includes an end line 110(i.e., goal line) perpendicular to the long side of the rink (i.e.,parallel to the end of the rink) and approximately 60-70 ft. long, aside line 112 that projects approximately 25-30 ft. from the end line110 towards the center of the field of play 100, then angled lines 114(i.e., left angled line and right angled line) approximately 10-15 ft.that are angled from each of the side lines 112 towards the center ofthe field of play 100, with a top line 116 of approximately 15-25 ft.that is parallel to the end line 110 and connects with each of theangled lines 114. The top line 116 can be approximately 40 ft. from thegoal line (as measured by a line perpendicular to the end line 110 andthe top line 116).

The goal area 108 can also comprise a goal mat (i.e., goal pad) 118 onthe floor surface 102 in front of a goal net 120. The goal pad 118 canbe a padded material where a goalie can roam to protect the goal net 120where the goal mat 118 provides cushion to the goalie when making savesto block a ball from entering the goal net 120. The goal mat 118 can be,for example, approximately 15-25 ft. in length and approximately 5-10ft. in width (with the long side closest to the goal net 120). The goalmat 118 can be approximately 1-2 in. thick made from any suitablematerial. An exemplary type of material for the goal mat can include agymnastics tumbling mat or similar gym mat. Only the goalie defendingthe goal net 120 (without inline skates) is allowed on the goal mat 118.The goal mat 118 can be a different color from the goal area 108 to helpidentify the goal mat 118.

An offensive player with or without possession of the ball going ontothe goal mat 18 results in a change of possession. This also applies ifthe offensive player's momentum carries him onto the goal mat 118 (evenafter scoring a goal.) This rule is to protect the goalie. The referee,at their discretion, may issue a yellow card if the offending player'saction of going onto the goal mat 118 seemed intentional or careless. Ifthe referee deems the offensive player's entry onto the goal mat 118 asintentional a red card can be issued.

There is somewhat more latitude for a defensive player to step on theirown goal mat 118 if it is deemed, by the referee, to be inadvertent(e.g., while moving in defensive coverage of an offensive player,avoiding a collision, etc.). However, the combination of stepping ontothe goal mat 118, while blocking a shot, or stealing the ball, or“tagging” an offensive player, results in a yellow card to the defender.

FIG. 3 shows an exemplary goal net configuration for an inline skatingsports game, consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure. Agoal net 120 can comprise a frame 122 with an opening approximately 10ft. wide, 5 ft. high, and 3-4 ft. deep with the long side correspondingto the field of play 100. The goal net 120 can include a standard net(i.e., a goal net; not shown in FIG. 3) and the frame 122. The standardnet can be a mesh material, a woven material, rope, or other similarconfiguration that is a material suitable for nets (e.g., cotton, nylon,or other polymer) on the sides of the goal net 120 away from the fieldof play 100 (e.g., the top side, the left and right sides). The frame122 can be constructed of pipes (i.e., tubes, posts) of, for example,approximately 4 in. outside diameter.

The goal net 120 can include one or more special goal nets 122 withinthe goal net (i.e., a smaller net inside the goal net 120). For exampleeach corner of the goal net 120 can include a special goal net 122A thatis worth two points for scoring. Another special goal net 122B can belocated at the top center area of the goal net 120 below a top crossbarwhere a goal scored in the special goal net 122B is worth three points.The special goal nets 122 can be any suitable shape, including circular(e.g., a quarter of a circle), triangular, square, etc.). Otherlocations/configurations of special goal nets 122 are possible,including different shapes, sizes, orientations, and locations withinthe goal net 120 where the various special goal nets 122 can havedifferent point values for scoring.

FIG. 4 shows an exemplary field of play for an inline skating sportsgame with a second goal net configuration consistent with embodiments ofthe present disclosure. A field of play 200 is similar to the field ofplay 100 shown in FIG. 1, except that field of play 200 includes asecond goal net 220 with a different configuration from the goal net 120shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The second goal net 220 can have differentdimensions (e.g., wider or narrower; taller or shorter, etc.) from thefirst goal net 120 described with regards to FIGS. 1 and 2 (see belowfor more information). The second goal net 220, with dimensionsdifferent from that of the first goal net 220, can be used with a goalarea 208 that has different dimensions (from goal area 108 in FIGS. 1-2)to correspond to the size of the second goal net 220.

The goal area 208 can be polygonal in shape (e.g., half of an octagon;half a hexagon, sometimes referred to as “the hexagon” or “the hex”)with a boundary that includes an end line 210 (i.e., goal line)perpendicular to the long side of the rink (i.e., parallel to the end ofthe rink) and approximately 60-70 ft. long, a side line 212 thatprojects approximately 30 ft. from the end line 210 towards the centerof the field of play 200, then angled lines 214 (i.e., left angled lineand right angled line) approximately 15 ft. that are angled from each ofthe side lines 212 towards the center of the field of play 200, with atop line 216 of approximately 25 ft. that is parallel to the end line210 and connects with each of the angled lines 214. The top line 216 canbe approximately 40 ft. from the goal line (as measured by a lineperpendicular to the end line 210 and the top line 216).

The goal area 208 can also comprise a goal mat (i.e., goal pad) 218 onthe floor surface 202 in front of a goal net 220. The goal pad 218 canbe a padded material where a goalie can roam to protect the goal net 220where the goal mat 218 provides cushion to the goalie when making savesto block a ball from entering the goal net 220. The goal mat 218 can be,for example, approximately 25 ft. in length and approximately 10 ft. inwidth (with the long side closest to the goal net 220). The goal mat 218can be approximately 1-2 in. thick made from any suitable material. Anexemplary type of material for the goal mat can include a gymnasticstumbling mat or similar gym mat. Only the goalie defending the goal net120 (without inline skates) is allowed on the goal mat 218. The goal mat218 can be a different color from the goal area 208 to help identify thegoal mat 218.

FIG. 5 shows the second goal net configuration of FIG. 4, consistentwith embodiments of the present disclosure. The second goal net 220 cancomprise a frame with an opening approximately 16 ft. wide, 6 ft. high,and 3-4 ft. deep with the long side corresponding to the field of play200. The goal net 220 can include a standard net (not shown in FIG. 5)and a frame 222. The standard net can be mesh, woven, rope, or othersimilar configuration that is a material suitable for nets (e.g., nylonor other polymer) on the sides of the goal net 220 away from the fieldof play 200 (e.g., the top side, the left and right sides. The frame 222can be constructed of pipes (i.e., tubes, posts) of approximately 4 in.outside diameter.

The goal net 220 can include one or more special goal nets 222 (i.e.,secondary goal nets; four corner goal (4CG); goal compartments, etc.)within the goal net 220 (i.e., a smaller net inside the goal net 220).The special goal nets 222 can be indicated by a pipe that is a smallersize than the frame of the second goal net 220. For example each cornerof the goal net 220 can include the special goal net 222A that is worthtwo points for scoring. Similar to the FBP and the VCBG described below,shots on goal headed towards any of the four corners of the goal net 220that get past the goalie and would typically be a certain goal if usinga common goal net, now may strike the piping of the 4CG and ricochetwildly in any direction.

Another special goal net 222B1 (i.e., the secondary vertical goal net;see VCBG discussion below) can incorporated into a top crossbar of thegoal net 220 where a goal scored in the special goal net 222B1 is worththree points. Additionally, there can be another special goal net 222B2that is mounted above the special goal net 222B1.

For example, the special goal net 222B2 (i.e., the secondary horizontalgoal net) can be approximately two feet above the special goal net222B1. In some embodiments, the special goal net 222B2 can have a framewith an opening that is parallel to the floor (e.g., like the rim of abasketball hoop). The special goal nets 222B1 and 222B2 can be adifferent shape compared to the special goal nets 222B. For example, thespecial goal nets 222B can be circular (e.g., a quarter of a circle) andthe special goal nets 222B1 and 222B2 can be squares/rectangles. Forspecial goal nets 222B1 and 222B2 that are non-circular shapes theorientation can be varied as desired (e.g., tilted rotated, angled,etc.). Other locations/configurations of special goal nets 222 arepossible, including different shapes, sizes, and locations within thegoal net xx where the various special goal nets 222 can have differentpoint values for scoring.

Special goal net 222B2 can be similar to a basketball hoop inorientation and its height above the playing surface can be, forexample, approximately 9 feet. Other heights are possible (10 feet, 12feet, etc.). Shots taken by the offensive team from outside of the goalarea 108 (i.e., beyond the line of the hexagon) can score 3 points(similar to a 3-point shot in basketball). When a goal is scored throughthe special goal net 222B2, the team scoring the goal does not have toretreat out of the goal area 108 (i.e., beyond the perimeter of thehexagon).

Frontal Bottom Piping (FBP)/Goal Line

A unique feature of the goal net is that it includes a piece of frontalbottom piping (FBP) 124 (FIG. 3) or 224 (FIG. 5) that runs across thefront bottom entrance of the goal net (e.g., goal net 120 or 220) andattaches to the vertical left and right front posts. The FBP 124/224acts as the goal line for the primary goal as well as the 2 bottomcorner goal compartments (e.g., lower right and lower left special goals122/222).

Most common sports have traditional goal nets that have a goal line thatis painted on the floor/field surface and serves the purpose ofdetermining if the game ball has crossed the threshold of the goal frameand thereby is declared a goal. Once a shot on goal has gotten past thegoalie the path to the goal net it is completely unobstructed and aresulting goal is assured to players and spectators alike.

The FBP 124/224 design feature adds an entirely new and excitingscenario to the world of sports, in that shots on goal that get past thegoalie and would otherwise be a clear cut goal by rolling or bouncingacross the uninhibited goal line, may now actually strike the FBP124/224 and not go in the goal net 120/220 but instead bounce away fromthe goal net 120/220 in any multitude of directions. Additionally,airborne shots on goal that, by nature, come through the air may strikethe FBP 124/224 and ricochet wildly in any possible direction.

Vertical Cross Bar Goal (VCBG)

Another unique design characteristic of the goal net is the verticalcross bar goal (VCBG). Most traditional common sports goal nets have anuninterrupted front crossbar that goes across the top of the goal net.(hockey, soccer, water polo) that simply acts as a support beam for thegoal net as a whole. The VCBG feature adds the same new and excitingscenarios to shots on goal that the FBP (described above) does. Shotstaken towards the middle of the goal that get past the goalie and thatwould surely be a goal if using a common goal net, might now strike theVCBG and ricochet wildly in any possible direction.

Shots on goal are an exciting component of any sports competition. Thefeatures of this goal net (FBP, VCBG, 4CG) increase that excitementlevel, to players and spectators alike, to a whole new unprecedentedlevel.

Players

Each team can consist of 11 players:

three forwards,

three defenders,

one goalie,

three substitutes,

one backup goalie.

The 11 players of the team can be any mix of players and players canplay multiple positions. For example, a team could include two goalies,four forwards (that only play forward) and five defenders (that onlyplay defense). Another possibility could include two goalies, threeforwards, four defenders, and two utility players (that can play forwardor defender). Numerous other combinations exist.

FIG. 6 shows an exemplary configuration of players on the playingsurface, consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure. Eachteam can consist of three forwards (indicated by F1A-F3A and F1B-F3B inFIG. 6) and three defenders (indicated by D1A-D3A and D1B-D3B in FIG. 6)and one goalie (indicated by GA and GB in FIG. 6). Other configurationsof players may be possible (e.g., a reduction in the number of forwardsand/or defenders if played on a smaller playing surface). Theconfiguration of the players will obviously change during play of theinline skating sports game.

Players Equipment

The players can wear various equipment while playing the inline skatingsports game including, but not limited to, inline skates or rollerskates or other forms of wheeled footwear (including, for example,motors or other methods of propulsion), flag belt with approximately 4-6flags per player or a Lighted Touch Sensor Belt (LTSB), helmet, eyegoggles (e.g., eye shield), elbow pads, knee pads, shin pads, shoulderpads, hip pads (i.e. breezers/pants), mouth piece (i.e., mouth guard),and any other related padded body shields and/or girdles to protect theplayers as needed. Any combination of these equipment pieces can be used(e.g., some games may not require shoulder pads, or shin pads, etc.).

In the versions of the inline skating sports game where players wear theLTSB around their waist the LTSB is approximately 4 inches wide andwraps all the way around the waist of the players. Other sizes andconfigurations of the LTSB are possible (e.g., narrower straps,different strap configurations, etc.). The LTSB can include one or moresensors capable of detecting a touch by another player.

The LTSB can also be synced to another light of each player (e.g., builtinto the helmets and/or LTSB of each player). This can assist withvisibility for the spectator fans in the stands and those spectatorswatching the game on media devices. The belt sensors can be designed totrigger the light (e.g., a bright RED light; a tag light) when they are“tagged/touched” by another player (e.g., when a defensive player tagsan offensive player with the game ball).

The LTSB can glow or flash for a period of time (e.g., approximately twoseconds) and then reset itself (i.e., turn off the light). During thetime the LTSB is activated it is the responsibility of the referees tosignal whether or not the “tag” results in the offensive team giving uppossession of the ball to the defensive team. The reason for this isbecause if the dribbling rules are in effect when the “tag” is appliedto an offensive player (see below for more information regardingdribbling), it does not facilitate a turnover (i.e., change ofpossession). Likewise if an offensive player has already releasedpossession of the ball by passing, kicking or shooting the ball, beforethe “tag” was applied, then the “tag” does not facilitate a turnover ofpossession.

The short duration (e.g., two seconds) of the LTSB is necessary toaccommodate these false “tags”. Because game play will continue throughthe false “tag” and only through a quick reset of the LTSB can thedefensive team once again stop the offensive player with the ball who iseither blading or has entered the goal area (i.e., hexagon) whiledribbling.

In some versions of the game the players may wear a flag belt aroundtheir waist with a number of flags (e.g., six) evenly spaced around thebelt.

Goalie Equipment

The goalies do not wear inline skates or roller skates. Instead, thegoalies wear shoes/sneakers to protect the feet and ankles.Additionally, the goalies wear goalie gloves to protect the fingers andhands. The goalies can also wear any or all of the equipment the otherplayers wear.

Game Ball

The inline skating sports game can use a game ball. The ball can besimilar to a standard volleyball or beach volleyball with acircumference of approximately 25-27 inches, a weight of approximately9-10 ounces, an internally pressure of approximately 2.0-5.0 PSI. Thegame ball can be any suitable color, including a bright color (e.g.,pink, yellow, orange) to increase visibility of the ball for players,referees, and spectators.

The game ball should have an even and consistent bounce to promotecontrol of the game ball when a player is dribbling the game ball on theplaying surface. The game ball should also have a non-slipsurface/texture that allows the players to be able to dribble, pass,hold, catch, and shoot the game ball. The material used for the gameball should be durable and able to withstand the rigors of the inlineskating sport when used during a game played on a hard surface (e.g.,wood, cement/concrete, asphalt, ICECOURT™, etc.).

Rules of Play

Goals are scored by throwing or kicking (or through contact with anypart of the body, including the chest or head) the ball into theopposing teams goal net (i.e., team 1 scores by throwing or kicking theball into the team 2's goal net and team 2 scores by throwing or kickingthe ball into team 1's goal net).

The special goal nets (e.g., the special goal nets 122B1/22B1 and122B2/222B2 of the goal net 120 and the second goal net 220) can have anindicator that indicates when a goal is scored in the special goal nets(i.e., a 2-point goal, or a 3-point goal, etc.). For example, anindicator light can light when a goal is scored in the special goal netsand each special goal net can have a different indicator light (e.g.,different color, different type of light, etc.). Different indicatorscan be used for the various goals (1 point goal, 2 point goal, or 3point goal) to help the players, spectators, and referees know the typeof goal scored. The goals can be determined by some type of sensor orother similar device and/or technology. The goal net piping that framesthe special goal nets can have different color framing that sets the 2point goals apart from the 3 point goals and furthermore sets thespecial goal nets apart from the main goal frame that constitutes a 1point goal. The netting for the different goal compartments cancorrelate to their respective pipe frame colors to further identify,clarify, and differentiate the different goal net compartments.

Offensive Play

Offensive play includes play by players with possession the ball (and/orteammates of the player with possession of the ball). The offensiveplayer with the ball may be blading (skating), dribbling, or stationary.Offensive players may pass, throw, shoot, and/or kick the ball towardstheir teammates (except their own goalie), the opposing goal, or an openarea of the playing surface.

Blading (Skating) Rules

Blading (skating) refers to offensive players skating while holding ontothe ball. Players may blade (skate) anytime/anywhere on the playingsurface (except on the goal mat).

Blading invokes the flag capture rules (FCR). FCR permits the defensiveteam to stop the offensive player in possession of the ball by takingone or more flags from a flag belt (e.g., removing one flag does the joband counts as a stop). The flag belt with approximately 4-6 flags perplayer or a Lighted Touch Sensor Belt (LTSB) can be used for stopping anoffensive player. Removing a flag from the ball-possessing offensiveplayer's flag belt or touching a LTSB (and triggering the LTSB light(s))results in an immediate turnover (i.e., change of possession) of theball from the offensive team to the defensive team via the T/TO rules.An offensive player may not go from blading to dribbling in order toprevent their flag from being captured under FCR.

Dribbling Rules

Dribbling refers to the offensive player skating while bouncing theball. Offensive players may dribble the ball anytime/anywhere on theplaying surface (except on the goal mat). The FCR does not apply when anoffensive player is dribbling the ball, with one major exception:Offensive Players that are dribbling the ball are not protected by theDribbling Rules once they enter the hexagon area of the goal area. Onceinside the hexagon area the Dribbling Player becomes “hot” and issubject to the same FCR as a blading player. The “hot” player stays“hot” even after leaving the goal (i.e., hexagon) area until they giveup possession of the ball. The Dribbling Rules allows the offensiveplayers to advance the ball towards the opposing goal and facilitate“set plays” while in possession of the ball, but at the same time thenuance of FCR being triggered once the offensive player enters the goalarea (hexagon), prevents the offensive team from dribbling the ballunabated right up to the opposing team's goal net for an uncontestedshot on goal. An offensive player may not go from blading to dribblingin order to prevent their flag from being captured under FCR. Anoffensive player that has started to dribble the ball may not stop andthen restart their dribble (i.e., double dribble). A double dribbleresults in a turnover of the ball to the other team via T/TO.

sStationary Position Rules (SPR)

SPR refers to an offensive player that is stationary while holding theball. Whatever rules were in effect (blading or dribbling) prior to theplayer becoming stationary, those rules continue to be in effect. If anoffensive player receives the ball while in the stationary position, theplayer may either: (1) remain stationary, (2) blade, or (3) dribble.

The Tag Turnover Rules (T/TO) as described below are a major componentof the Change of Possession rules. They are a major component becausethe T/TO applies not just to player tags, but also to incidents thatinclude player penalties and rule violations.

When a defensive player applies a tag (e.g., pulls one of the flags fromthe flag belt, touches the LTSB, etc.) to an offensive player while theoffensive player is blading with the game ball or dribbling with thegame ball inside the goal area 108, the offensive player has threeoptions in which to give the game ball over to the defensive team: (1)roll the game ball to the nearest corner of the playing surface; (2)toss the game ball straight into the air; or (3) give the game ball tothe nearest referee who will then give the game ball to the nearestdefensive player to restart play. T/TO facilitates continuous playbecause each of the teams can quickly switch naturally from offensive todefensive and vice versa without the need for any formal stoppage inplay. T/TO is the primary QRS method used to give possession of the gameball to the other team after an event that triggers as a COP.

Defensive Play

Defensive players may defend their goal against the offensive players bybody positioning (e.g., placing their body between the offensive playerand their defensive goal), stealing the game ball from the offensiveplayer (e.g., while an offensive player is dribbling the game ball orholding onto the game ball), intercepting a pass (e.g., between twooffensive players), blocking shots by offensive players, and taggingoffensive players with the game ball under the FCR.

Body positioning where the defensive player places his/her body betweenthe offensive player and the defensive player's goal is permitted aslong as the defensive player does not commit a penalty in the process.

Defensive players may attempt to steal the ball (i.e., knock the ballaway) from an offensive player while the offensive player is dribblingthe ball or holding onto the ball. This is allowable anytime/anywhere onthe player surface as long as the defensive player does not commit apenalty in the process.

Intercepting the ball is when a defensive player intercepts a passbetween two offensive players and is allowable anytime/anywhere on theplayer surface as long as the defensive player does not commit a penaltyin the process.

Shot Blocking is when a defensive player blocks a shot by an offensiveplayer. This is allowable anytime/anywhere on the player surface as longas the defensive player does not commit a penalty in the process.

In order to maximize the offensive play of the inline skating sportsgame, defensive players are prohibited from impeding the skating,scoring, passing, and overall team play of the offensive team. Defensiveplayers are not allowed to tackle, grab, check, or otherwise foul theoffensive players (see additional information related to penaltiesherein). Defensive teams also cannot play a zone defense (e.g., eachdefensive player protects an area of the defensive zone, rather thanguarding an individual offensive player (i.e., “man-to-man” defense).This results in a yellow card penalty to the defending player.

Goal Scoring and Quick Re-Starts (QRS)

A goal can be scored when the game ball enters into the goal net 120/220(i.e., main goal), including one of the special goal nets 122/222 (i.e.,four corner goal compartments), including 122B1/222B1 (i.e., lowermiddle crossbar goal compartment), and 122B2/222B2 (i.e., the uppermiddle crossbar goal compartment).

After a goal is scored the goal scoring team is allowed time for a shortcelebration. Afterwards all the players from the goal scoring team mustwithdraw to a position outside of the goal area 108 (i.e., outside ofthe hexagon). This allows the goalie to retrieve the game ball from thegoal net and quickly restart the game by passing (i.e., “inbounding”)the game ball to one of his own players anywhere on the playing surface102/202. (QRS)

Even though the goalie could conceivably pass the game ball to anyteammate, the retreat of the goal scoring team outside of the goal area108/208 (i.e., behind the hexagon lines), allows for the goalie'steammates to make themselves available for an uncontested “inboundspass” from their goalie anywhere inside the goal area 108/208 (i.e.,inside the hexagon) and thus facilitates a quick restart to the game(QRS).

3 Point Pressure—(3PP)

However, as noted above, if a goal is scored through the special goalnet 122B2/222B2 the team scoring the goal does not have to retreat outof the goal area 108/208 (i.e., beyond the perimeter of the hexagon).This allows the goal scoring team to defend against the “inbounds pass”similar to the game of basketball. The goal scoring team may “pressure”the goalie's inbounds pass at its discretion. The goal scoring team mayimplement a full court press (basketball) in an attempt to steal theinbounds pass directly from the goalie to his teammate. It may elect to“trap” the player that receives the inbounds pass in an effort to forcethat player into an errant pass to their teammate or the “trap” may beused to prevent the offensive team from quickly proceeding up the courtwith the ball and thereby take time of the shot clock, leaving theoffensive team less time to score a goal.

The goalie at their own discretion, instead of quickly inbounding theball to their teammate (basketball), may choose to hold onto the gameball like a football quarterback and look for an open downfieldteammate/receiver to pass the ball too (long bomb). This allows theoffensive team the time to run complex passing routes (Americanfootball) as part of their offensive strategy. Ultimately the trade-offfor the offensive team is that the shot clock (see below for more info)will start counting down while the goalie is holding the ball leavingthem less time to score a goal before a change of possession.

Goalie/Goalkeeping

The goalie's primary responsibility is to keep the ball from going intohis team's goal and thus prevent the opposing team from accruing pointsby scoring goals. Another responsibility of the goalie is to inbound theball to his teammates after making a save or after a goal is scored bythe opposing team. A third responsibility of the goalie is to come offhis goal mat area and into the Hexagon (but not outside the Hexagon) tobreak up “long bomb” passes by the opposing team into his Hexagon goalarea (similar to the position of free safety in the game of Americanfootball). Another responsibility of the goalie is to remove himselffrom the field of play by going to his player's bench, and beingsubstituted for by a skating player in order for his team to increasetheir opportunity of scoring a goal. Once the goalie is pulled from thegame, the goalie position must remain vacant for the remainder of thecontest.

The goalie may accomplish his primary objective of keeping the ball outof his goal by using any part of his body to catch, block, or otherwisedeflect shots on goal away from his goal net.

The goalie may inbounds/pass the ball to his teammate after a save orretrieving a goal by using any part of their body to pass or direct theball towards their teammate. The goalie is not allowed to come off oftheir goal mat to inbounds/pass the ball to their teammate. Doing soresults in a yellow card penalty to be served by the offensive playerclosest to the goalie.

The goalie may come off their goal mat to knock away a loose ball insidetheir goal area, but the goalie cannot grab or take possession of theball when they are off of their goal mat. This is very similar to theposition of a soccer goalie.

Goaltending Freedom Rule—(GFR)

Unlike the game of traditional basketball in which defensive players arenot allowed to block shots that are about to go into the basketball hoopand also are not allowed to swat away shots that are still bouncing onor above the basketball rim, in this game goalies are allowed to usetheir hands to block shots that are about to go into the basketball hoopand shots that are bouncing in and around the overhanging 3 point goal.This is known as the Goaltending Freedom Rule.

The significance of this rule is that (1) it adds to the physicalprowess requirements of the goalie position, (2) it creates an addedelement of excitement to the 3 point shot while it is in the air,knowing that the shot can be blocked at the rim by the goalie, (3) itcreates a level of skilled marksmanship for 3 point shooters that isunprecedented in other sports in that the opening of 3 point overheadgoal net only allows for an absolutely “perfect shot” that is inside thewidth of the goal rim but outside the reach of the goalie, to go throughthe rim and count for 3 points, and (4) it creates a possible scenarioin which the goalie may actually place himself out of position of themain goal net by attempting to block a 3 point shot and not being ableto control the rebound and thus leaving his goal net open for theoffensive team to score an open net goal upon getting an offensiverebound.

Note: At this time there is no provision to allow for shots taken insidethe Hexagon into the 3 point overhang to be counted for as 2 point goalslike in the game of basketball.

Shot Clock

The offensive team (i.e., the team in possession of the ball) has a setperiod of time (e.g., 30 seconds) starting at the time that they obtainpossession of the ball, to either (1) take a shot that either hits theopposing team's goalie or hits any part of the frame of the goal net120/220 or (2) score a goal. If the offensive team does not do one ofthe two previous actions then possession changes to the opposing team.The shot clock resets for a short period of time (e.g., 10 seconds)after the offensive team recovers their own rebound (e.g., a shot thatdeflects off the goalie or part of the goal net) and for everysubsequent offensive rebound.

Ball Out of Play

Any time the game ball goes out of play (e.g., either over theglass/dasher boards 104 or into the players' bench, the defensive team(the team that did not last have possession of the game ball) is awardedpossession for the restart.

A QRS is initiated by the referees. Each referee can carry an extra gameball secured by a ball holding apparatus. The referee will quicklyrestart the game by passing a new game ball to the defensive player whois credited with last touching the ball. The referee is essentiallyacting as the “inbounder” of the ball to quickly restart the game.

Referees

The inline skating sports game can include one or more referees toofficiate the game to enforce rules and protect the players. There canbe from two to four referees officiating a game, although games takingplace on smaller playing surfaces could have only one referee. Eachreferee can carry an extra game ball in a game ball holding apparatus(not shown). Extra game balls can also be located on the back (i.e.,anywhere outside the field of play and outside of the net of the goal)of each goal net. Additional game balls can also be located with ascorer/clock operator, or additional designated ballretrievers/providers (similar to a soccer match) around the playingsurface.

Penalty System

The penalty system for this inline skating sports game is the mostdynamic game management system ever devised for a team sportscompetition. Whereas, most common sports' penalty systems bog down thegameplay with constant stoppages in play, this penalty system actuallyignites the action with an immediate burst of offensive gameplay themoment a penalty is called. This is accomplished by using the T/TO rulesdescribed previously.

A inline skating sports game can include a penalty system. The penaltysystem can help promote player safety along with providing a fast,high-scoring, and exciting game. In generally, intentional body contactbetween players is prohibited. The penalty system also addresses poorbehavior by the players.

The penalty system can include issuing of a first yellow card, a secondyellow card, and/or a red card. If a player is issued a yellow cardtheir team loses a player for the duration of a penalty time (e.g., twominutes). Offending players do not have to serve time for their penaltyin a penalty box but they must immediately return to their players' teambench.

(If a penalized player that is heading to their bench intentionallyinterferes with game play they are issued a red card penalty.)

During the course of time that the penalty is in effect, the penalizedplayer is allowed re-enter the game as soon his team regains possessionof the ball by using the normal method of player substitution. Thepermission of allowing the penalized player to return to the game doesnot terminate the penalty. It just simply allows the penalized player toreturn to action as one of the shorthanded skaters for his team.

The penalized player's team (e.g., team 1 above) is required to play oneplayer short for the entire penalty time (e.g., two minutes). In someversions of the inline skating sports game, scoring a goal by team 2does not release/end the penalty to team 1. In other versions of theinline skating sports game, scoring a goal by the non-penalized team canend the penalty of the penalized team and cause the player serving thepenalty to return to the game. The penalty time starts when thepenalized player reaches their bench.

A player that has received a first yellow card can receive a secondyellow card for subsequent penalty. Receiving a second yellow card isthe equivalent of receiving a red card (see below) and causes theoffending player to be removed from play for the rest of the game andthe player must leave the playing field and players' bench and return tothe locker room.

A player can also receive a red card for serious penalties that resultsin an immediate ejection from the game. The player receiving the redcard is removed from play for the rest of the game and the player mustleave the playing field and players' bench and return to the lockerroom. The team of the player receiving a red card also receives apenalty that must be served by a different player from that team (e.g.,player B1 of team 2 receives a red card and is ejected from the game;player B2 serves a penalty (e.g., two minutes) resulting in one fewerplayer for team 2 for two minutes).

In versions of the game where players are wearing LTSB, a referee canindicate a recipient of a yellow card penalty or red card penalty byremotely activating the LTSB of the player receiving the yellow or redcard. For example, if triggered, the LTSB and/or the helmet light can betriggered to emit a yellow light and the player receiving the yellowcard can make his/her way to the players' bench. This can avoidrequiring the referee to stop play to issue the yellow card. NOTE: Redcard penalties by their nature require a stoppage in play. However theLTSB can still be used to signify a red card penalty.

Player Penalties

All the following actions by a player will result in either a yellowcard or a red card: A yellow card always results in player penalty andcontinuous gameplay facilitated by the Change of Possession and QuickRe-Start rules. A red card always results in the immediate stoppage ofplay and the offending player being removed from the game.

fighting—red card

shoving/pushing—red card

tackling—red card

checking—red card

elbowing—red card

tripping—red card

holding—yellow card

grabbing—yellow card

fouling—yellow card

There are a number of penalties that can be committed by an offensiveplayer:

1. A blading offensive player cannot intentionally pass (using hand orfoot or any body part) the game ball to themselves off a teammate,opposing players, or game officials to avoid flag capture/LSTB contact.A violation results in a yellow card.

2. A blading offensive player cannot intentionally pass the game balloff the dasher boards, plexiglass, or goal net apparatus to themselvesto avoid flag capture/LSTB contact. A violation results in a yellowcard. Note: a dribbling offensive player is allowed to pass the ball tothemselves off the dasher boards, plexiglass, and goal net apparatus toavoid a defensive player. However a “hot” offensive dribbler cannot.

3. An offensive player cannot pass the game ball to his own goalie. Aviolation results in a yellow card.

4. A stationary offensive player cannot use the dasher boards,plexiglass, or goal net apparatus to pass the game ball to themselves toavoid an defensive player and start their blading or dribbling. Aviolation results in a yellow card.

5. If an offensive player throws, kicks the game ball either directly oron a bounce into the stands without the ball being touched by adefensive Player or any part of the goal net, this results in a yellowcard penalty (and a QRS). The yellow card does not apply to good faithpasses to teammates that are deflected out of bounds off the hands ofthe teammate or to passes that go into the players' bench area. Insteadthe referee will initiate a quick restart (i.e., ball goes to thenearest defensive player).

Additionally, if a player (offensive or defensive) receives a penaltythat player must immediately return to their team's player bench. If thepenalized player that is heading to their bench intentionally interfereswith game play (e.g., after a QRS) they can be issued a red cardpenalty.

Timeouts

There are no timeouts for the teams. Only referees can call an officialtimeout and stop play for player safety (e.g., an injury) or other gamerelated issued.

Substitution

There are only four substitute players available on the bench which alsoinclude the backup goalie. These players may all be rotated in and outof the game at any time while the game is in play (i.e., “on the fly”)or also during a stoppage in play. The substitute player(s) cannot leavethe bench and come onto the playing surface until they are tagged by theteammate they are replacing.

Time of Play

Game play shall consist of three periods: Each period begins with thehome team goalie inbounding the ball to his teammate.

Period 1—30 minutes

Period 2—20 minutes

Period 3—10 minutes

Overtime (when the score is tied at the end of period 3)—5 minutes

Intermissions (time between each period)—approximately 5-10 minutes.

Two Minute Showtime

During the last two minutes of every period, the FCR will apply to allplayers at all times. Offensive players will not be protected bydribbling the ball (i.e., FCR apply to all players—even a playerdribbling the ball). This rule should promote a frenzy of all outskating by both teams leading up to the end of the period.

Progressive Playoff Format

The inline skating sports game can use a progressive playoff format thatis designed so that every game starting with the third playoff game is apossible elimination game, thereby making every playoff game relevant.

Game 1

-   -   no team is eliminated after game 1.

Game 2

-   -   no team is eliminated after game 2.

Game 3

-   -   If the overall tally of playoff games won is two games to one,        no team is eliminated.    -   If one team is up three games to none, then the losing team is        eliminated.

Game 4

-   -   If the overall tally of playoff games won is two games per team,        no team is eliminated.    -   If one team ends up three games to one, then the losing team is        eliminated

Game 5

-   -   The playoff series would have to be tied two games per team to        get to game 5.    -   Neither team is eliminated for losing game 5.

Game 6

-   -   If the overall tally of games after game six is three games per        team, no team is eliminated.    -   If one team ends up four games to two, the losing team is        eliminated.

Game 7

-   -   This is the final game to decide the playoff series winner.

Although several embodiments have been described above with a certaindegree of particularity, those skilled in the art could make numerousalterations to the disclosed embodiments without departing from thespirit of the present disclosure. It is intended that all mattercontained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawingsshall be interpreted as illustrative only and not limiting. Changes indetail or structure may be made without departing from the presentteachings. The foregoing description and following claims are intendedto cover all such modifications and variations.

Various embodiments are described herein of various apparatuses,systems, and methods. Numerous specific details are set forth to providea thorough understanding of the overall structure, function,manufacture, and use of the embodiments as described in thespecification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It will beunderstood by those skilled in the art, however, that the embodimentsmay be practiced without such specific details.

In other instances, well-known operations, components, and elements havenot been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodimentsdescribed in the specification. Those of ordinary skill in the art willunderstand that the embodiments described and illustrated herein arenon-limiting examples, and thus it can be appreciated that the specificstructural and functional details disclosed herein may be representativeand do not necessarily limit the scope of the embodiments, the scope ofwhich is defined solely by the appended claims.

Reference throughout the specification to “various embodiments,” “someembodiments,” “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or the like, means thata particular feature, structure, or characteristic described inconnection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment.Thus, appearances of the phrases “in various embodiments,” “in someembodiments,” “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” or the like, inplaces throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring tothe same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures,or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or moreembodiments. Thus, the particular features, structures, orcharacteristics illustrated or described in connection with oneembodiment may be combined, in whole or in part, with the featuresstructures, or characteristics of one or more other embodiments withoutlimitation.

Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in whole or inpart, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein isincorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated materialsdoes not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or otherdisclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to theextent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth hereinsupersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference.Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated byreference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions,statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only beincorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between thatincorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: a) providing a field ofplay, wherein the field of play includes a first goal net, a first goalarea proximate the first goal net, a first goal pad inside the firstgoal area and proximate the first goal net, a second goal net, a secondgoal area proximate the second goal net, a second goal pad inside thesecond goal area and proximate the second goal net, a game ball, and asafety zone marking adjacent a perimeter of the field of play; b)placing, in the field of play, a first goalie with a first teamproximate the first goal net and wearing shoes, three forwards with thefirst team, each of the forwards wearing a flag belt of a first colorand inline skates or roller skates, three defenders with the first team,each of the defenders wearing a flag belt of a first color and inlineskates or roller skates, a second goalie with a second team proximatethe second goal net, three forwards with the second team, each of theforwards wearing a flag belt of a second color and inline skates orroller skates, three defenders with the second team, each of thedefenders wearing a flag belt of a second color and inline skates orroller skates; and c) moving, in the field of play the three forwardsand the three defenders of the first team and the three forwards and thethree defenders of the second team, where the game ball is possessed bythe first team or the second team, where the defender or the forward ofthe first team or the defender or the forward of the second team canpossess the game ball, causing the first team or the second team to anoffensive team and the other team without the game ball to be adefensive team, where the offensive team attempts to score a goal bycausing the game ball to pass into the first or the second goal net andthe defensive team attempts to prevent the goal by defending the firstor the second goal net, and where the offensive team may move the gameball by pass between the forwards and the defenders in any combinationor where the defender or the forward with the game ball may skate whiledribbling the game ball.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the field ofplay further includes a barrier around the perimeter of the field ofplay.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the barrier comprises one ormore of dasher boards and a fence.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein thefield of play comprises a hockey rink.
 5. The method of claim 1, themoving further comprising stealing the game ball by a defensive playerfrom an offensive player.
 6. The method of claim 1, the moving furthercomprising blocking the game ball when an offensive player is attemptingto score the goal or to pass the game ball.
 7. The method of claim 1,further comprising awarding a penalty when a yellow card infraction or ared card infraction is committed by an offensive or defensive player,where the penalty results in a yellow card or a red card being issued.8. The method of claim 7, wherein the yellow card infractions includeholding, grabbing, or fouling an opposing player and the red cardinfractions include fighting, shoving, tackling, checking, elbowing, ortripping an opposing player.
 9. A method of playing a game with a gameball, the game comprising the steps of: (a) providing a playing surfacethat is generally rectangular with rounded corners having a lengthdimension of approximately 200 feet or less and a width dimension ofapproximately 85 feet or less; (b) providing a pair of opposing goalnets, each associated with one of the ends of the playing surface suchthat each goal net defines a scoring area above said playing surface;(c) providing a first team and a second team of players, each teamalternatively having possession of the game ball and having an objectiveto score points by throwing or kicking the game ball into the goal net;(d) providing the first team and the second team each include sixplayers and a goalie, where each of the six players wear inline skatesand each of the goalies does not wear inline skates; and (e) providing abarrier around the playing surface for deflecting the game ball towardthe playing surface where players from the first team and the secondteam are free to collect the game ball after deflecting off the barrier.10. The method of claim 9, wherein the team not in possession of thegame ball has an objective to defend one of the goal nets by stoppingthe movement of the game ball by the team in possession, where themovement may be stopped by players of the non-possession team by eitheroptionally (1) removing a flag attached to a player in possession of thegame ball, (2) disrupting a throw of the game ball from one player ofthe team in possession of the game ball to another, or (3) disrupting anattempt by the team in possession of the game ball to throw the gameball into the goal net.
 11. The method of claim 9, further comprising(f) providing a pair of goal mats, where the each of the pair of goalmats comprises a long side with a first dimension of approximately 25feet in length and a short side with a second dimension of approximately10 feet in width, where the pair of goal mats are on the playing surfaceproximate each of the pair of goal nets and the long side is parallelwith the width of the playing surface and the short side is parallelwith the length of the playing surface.
 12. The method of claim 11,further comprising a goal area, wherein the goal area is a modified halfhexagon shape.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the modified halfhexagon comprises an end line perpendicular to a long side of a playingsurface and approximately 25-30 ft. long, a left side line and a rightside line that each projects approximately 25-30 ft. from the end linetowards a center of a field of play, then angled lines approximately10-15 ft. that are angled from each of the side lines towards the centerof the field of play, with a top line of approximately 15-25 ft. that isparallel to the end line and connects with each of the angled lines,wherein the top line can be approximately 40 ft. from the end line (asmeasured by a line perpendicular to the end line and the top line). 14.A goal apparatus for an inline skating sports game, the goal apparatuscomprising: a rectangular goal net and an opening perpendicular to afield of play; a first plurality of secondary goal nets, wherein thefirst plurality of secondary goal nets are within the rectangular goalnet; and a second plurality of secondary goal nets, wherein the secondplurality of secondary goal nets are not within the rectangular goalnet.
 15. The goal apparatus of claim 14, wherein the first plurality ofsecondary goal nets are located in the corners of the rectangular goalnet.
 16. The goal apparatus of claim 14, wherein the second plurality ofsecondary goal nets includes a vertical secondary goal net and ahorizontal secondary goal net, where the vertical secondary goal net hasan opening perpendicular to the field of play and the horizontalsecondary goal net has an opening parallel with the field of play. 17.The goal apparatus of claim 16, where the horizontal secondary goal netis a round shape, a square shape, a triangular shape, an oval shape, ora polygonal shape.
 18. The goal apparatus of claim 16, wherein thevertical secondary goal net a greater distance from the playing surfacethan the horizontal goal.
 19. The goal apparatus of claim 14, whereinthe first plurality of secondary goal nets are one or more of a portionof a spherical shape, a square shape, a triangular shape, a portion ofan oval shape, or a polygonal shape.